"We have no real open space for children to play"

Send the latest real estate market news directly to your inbox

Although residents fear that sunlight will be blocked in their homes, plans for a giant tower in central London have been approved.

Residents of Aldgate claimed that a 23-story tower would harm their physical and mental health by reducing sunlight.

Developer Cutlers Houndsditch Unit Trust has been approved to build a huge office building on Cutler Street and Houndsditch.

However, local residents said it would destroy valuable outdoor space and harm the environment.

Aldgate resident Mark Lemanski opposed the plan, claiming that the tower would affect the physical and mental health of residents.

Read more: After the plan failed, the Tulip Tower "should be moved to Canary Wharf"

He said: "Sunlight is essential. Lack of sunlight can hinder people, especially children, from spending time outdoors.

"There is a direct relationship between health and sunshine. We are in a crisis of obesity and mental health, especially among teenagers."

Mr. Lemansky stated that the tower will be completely sheltered in the outdoor recreation area and ball sports space on Middlesex Street.

He urged planning members to reject these plans to protect the well-being of local young people.

Local councillor Marianne Fredericks was very disappointed that the plan was approved.

She said: "We can't keep the light away from the residents. Here, we are on the edge of one of our largest residential areas and we are building a huge building.

"This is a large and tall building that overwhelms our residents and reduces their quality of life, health and well-being.

"New York City is very poor in providing resources and facilities for our residents and maintaining their housing.

"We don't have a real open space for children to play. We are here to take a little piece of what they have, take it away and cast it in the shadows."

Do you want to know the latest news, opinions, functions and opinions of the city?

MyLondon’s wonderful newsletter The 12 is absolutely packed with all the latest news to keep you entertained, informed and excited.

At around 12 noon, you will receive 12 stories directly in your inbox. This is the perfect lunchtime reading.

More importantly-it's free!

The MyLondon team tells London stories to Londoners. Our reporters cover all the news you need-from the city hall to your local street, so you won't miss a moment.

Don't skip the beat and sign up for The 12 newsletter here.

Ms. Fredericks said that the building should be reduced by half to ensure that residents will not be affected by shadows.

Architect Simon Alford said that the architectural design meets special standards and will transform a tired area in Aldgate.

He said: "We designed a building that connects with and serves its community."

As part of the design, the building will generate heat, which can be stored in hot tanks for use by neighboring residents of Middlesex Street Estate.

Four blocks built in the 1980s will also be demolished to make room for the new building, which will provide 56,533 square meters of office space.

The building has a service life of at least 100 years and has 23 studio office spaces, all with green terraces.

A planning report said: "The development will provide high-quality, unique world-class buildings, and will enrich and increase the visual interest of the local townscape and city skyline.

"The impact of the proposed development on residential comfort has been considered, and the conclusion is that the impact on residential comfort will not be significant, and the development project will comply with the relevant local planning policies."

The company's planning and transportation committee approved the plan on Tuesday (November 16) with 11 votes in favor and 6 against.